I've been on Bactrim DS for 10 years for large cysts on my face(1-2 a year, sometimes 2" in size). I recently tried going off of the Bactrim now that I'm older, and had a severe breakout(50+ cysts on back in 3 weeks), on back, shoulders, knees/upperlegs, face and chest. Bactrim slowly cleared me up again. Should I be going on accutane or staying on bactrim forever? I'm worried at this point accutane might not be effective(severity) or last and long-term bactrim may have worsened the problem.
February 24, 2017
Answer: Accutane for Stubborn Acne
Ten years is a long time to be on Bactrim. Doxycycline is a safer long term acne antibiotic so I am surprised that hasn't been your maintenance medication.
You are right to consider Accutane. It is an ideal option for stubborn or severe acne. You will need to be on it for approximately five months with monthly visits to monitor your blood tests. There is an 80% chance that you will be essentially cured. If it doesn't cure your acne, after a rest period of several months, you should consider a second five month treatment.
The most common side effects are dry lips and dry skin. Other things like depression and intestinal problems get a lot of press but actually are uncommon and can be watched for by your dermatologist.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
February 24, 2017
Answer: Accutane for Stubborn Acne
Ten years is a long time to be on Bactrim. Doxycycline is a safer long term acne antibiotic so I am surprised that hasn't been your maintenance medication.
You are right to consider Accutane. It is an ideal option for stubborn or severe acne. You will need to be on it for approximately five months with monthly visits to monitor your blood tests. There is an 80% chance that you will be essentially cured. If it doesn't cure your acne, after a rest period of several months, you should consider a second five month treatment.
The most common side effects are dry lips and dry skin. Other things like depression and intestinal problems get a lot of press but actually are uncommon and can be watched for by your dermatologist.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
February 24, 2017
Answer: Accutane for back acne
Accutane works well for body and facial acne, so there's no reason not to try it. I prescribe it to many patients for severe cystic acne, many of whom have tried and used other topical or oral medications before. Based on the photo and your description, Accutane seems like a good solution for you.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
February 24, 2017
Answer: Accutane for back acne
Accutane works well for body and facial acne, so there's no reason not to try it. I prescribe it to many patients for severe cystic acne, many of whom have tried and used other topical or oral medications before. Based on the photo and your description, Accutane seems like a good solution for you.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful